Herb grinding device

ABSTRACT

An herb grinding device is disclosed that includes a first section and a second section. The first section includes a first cavity, a top surface, an outer wall surrounding the first cavity, and a plurality of teeth extending from the top surface. The second section is rotatably coupled to the first section and includes a second section floor, a plurality of holes in the second section floor, a second cavity facing the first cavity, a plurality of teeth extending from the second section floor, and an annular flange positioned within the first cavity and interfacing an outer wall of the first section. The herb grinding device may also include a third section that is removably coupled to the second section opposite the first section and includes a channel extending through the third section, and a fourth section that is removably coupled to the third section and includes a collection cavity.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This document is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/681,808 entitled “Herb Grinding Device” to Dukat, which was filed onApr. 8, 2015 which claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S.Provisional Patent Application 61/978,919 entitled “Herb GrindingDevice” to Dukat, which was filed on Apr. 13, 2014, the contents ofwhich are hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

1. Technical Field

Aspects of this document relate generally to herb grinding devices.

2. Background Art

Grinders are commonly used for rendering foods and spices to mulch orparticulate form. Conventional food grinders are typically a large homeor industrial scale device suitable for shearing/grinding large volumesof food or herbs. Such food grinders may typically be driven by a motorthat cause an excessive amount of heat energy to be transferred to theherb, thus increasing the risk of heating and spoiling the herb.Furthermore, certain herbs are required in only small quantities at atime for specific consumption.

SUMMARY

According to one aspect, an herb grinding device comprises a firstcylindrical section, a second cylindrical section, and at least a thirdcylindrical section. The first cylindrical section comprises a firstcavity, a top surface, and a plurality of circular arced teeth extendingfrom the top surface within the first cavity in at least two concentricteeth rings, each of the at least two concentric teeth rings comprisingat least two circular arced teeth. The second cylindrical section isrotatably coupled to the first cylindrical section and comprises asecond cavity facing the first cavity, a second section floor, aplurality of holes in the second section floor, and a plurality ofcircular arced teeth extending from the second section floor within thesecond cavity in at least two concentric teeth rings each comprising atleast two circular arced teeth, wherein the at least two concentricteeth rings of the second cylindrical section are positioned between theat least two concentric teeth rings of the first cylindrical section andthe plurality of circular arced teeth of the second cylindrical sectionat least partially overlap the plurality of circular arced teeth of thefirst cylindrical section. The at least a third cylindrical section isremovably coupled to the second cylindrical section and comprises acollection cavity.

Various implementations and embodiments may comprise one or more of thefollowing. The at least third cylindrical section may comprise a thirdcylindrical section removably coupled to the second cylindrical sectionopposite the first cylindrical section, the third cylindrical sectioncomprising a channel extending through the third cylindrical section andone or more support arms extending across the channel, and a fourthcylindrical section removably coupled to the third cylindrical sectionopposite the second cylindrical section, the fourth cylindrical sectioncomprising the collection cavity. The plurality of holes in the secondsection floor may be arranged in at least two concentric hole rings eachcomprising a plurality of holes, each of the at least two concentrichole rings being aligned with each of the at least two concentric teethrings of the first cylindrical section. Each of the plurality of holesmay be substantially square in shape with a corner directed to a centerof the second section floor. Each circular arced tooth of the pluralityof teeth of the first cylindrical section may comprise a V-shapedprotrusion on a first end of the circular arced tooth, a crescent shapedrecess on a second end of the circular arced tooth opposite the firstend, and a V-shaped recess on a bottom end of the circular arced toothopposite the top surface; each circular arced tooth of the plurality ofteeth of the second cylindrical section may comprise a V-shapedprotrusion on a first end of the circular arced tooth, a crescent shapedrecess on a second end of the circular arced tooth opposite the firstend, and a V-shaped recess on a top end of the circular arced toothopposite the second section floor; and the plurality of teeth of thefirst cylindrical section and the plurality of teeth of the secondcylindrical section may be positioned such that the V-shaped protrusionsof the plurality of teeth of the first cylindrical section pointopposite the V-shaped protrusions of the plurality of teeth of thesecond cylindrical section. The second cylindrical section may comprisean annular flange positioned within the first cavity and interfacing anouter wall of the first cylindrical section; the at least two concentricteeth rings of the first cylindrical section may comprise threeconcentric teeth rings each comprising four teeth; the at least twoconcentric teeth rings of the second cylindrical section may comprisetwo concentric teeth rings each comprising four teeth, a firstconcentric teeth ring of the two concentric teeth rings of the secondcylindrical section being positioned between a first and a secondconcentric teeth ring of the three concentric teeth rings of the firstcylindrical section, and a second concentric teeth ring of the twoconcentric teeth rings being positioned between the second and a thirdconcentric teeth ring of the three concentric teeth rings of the firstcylindrical section. Each of the plurality of teeth of both the firstand the second cylindrical sections extend between approximately 25 andapproximately 35 degrees and a width of each of the plurality of teethof the first cylindrical section and the second cylindrical section isequal to a distance between adjacent concentric teeth rings of the firstcylindrical section and second cylindrical section, and the herbgrinding device may further comprise a gap of approximately 0.010″inches between the bottom end of each of the plurality of teeth of thefirst cylindrical section and the second section floor and a gap ofapproximately 0.010″ inches between the top end of each of the pluralityof teeth of the second cylindrical section and the top surface. Thefirst cylindrical section may be coupled to the second cylindricalsection with a first magnet positioned at a center of the top surfaceand a second magnet positioned at a center of the second section floorand in contact with the first magnet at a center point between the topsurface and the second section floor. The herb grinding device maycomprise a radiused edge within the collection cavity and a screencoupled to the one or more support arms and positioned within thechannel. The first cylindrical section may comprise a recessed outercavity, a T-shaped slot, and one or more gripping slots, and the secondcylindrical section may be threadedly coupled to the third cylindricalsection with four first threading notches and the third cylindricalsection may be threadedly coupled to the fourth cylindrical second withfour second threading notches.

According to another aspect, an herb grinding device comprises a firstsection, a second section, a third section, and a fourth section. Thefirst section comprises a first cavity, a top surface, an outer wallsurrounding the first cavity, and a plurality of teeth extending fromthe top surface within the first cavity. The second section is rotatablycoupled to the first section and comprises a second section floor, aplurality of holes in the second section floor, a second cavity facingthe first cavity to form a grinding chamber between the second sectionfloor and the top wall, a plurality of teeth extending from the secondsection floor within the second cavity, and an annular flange positionedwithin the first cavity and interfacing an outer wall of the firstsection. The third section is removably coupled to the second sectionopposite the first section, and the third section comprises a channelextending through the third section and one or more support armsextending across the channel. The fourth section is removably coupled tothe third section opposite the second section, and the fourth sectioncomprises a collection cavity.

Various implementations and embodiments may comprise one or more of thefollowing.

11. The herb grinding device of claim 10, wherein the first sectioncomprises a recessed outer cavity adjacent a T-shaped slot, and whereinthe second section is threadedly coupled to the third cylindricalsection with four first threading notches and the third section isthreadedly coupled to the fourth second with four second threadingnotches. Each of the plurality of teeth of the first section may bearced and positioned in at least two concentric teeth rings, each of theat least two concentric teeth rings comprising at least two arced teethof the plurality of arced teeth of the first section. Each of theplurality of teeth of the second section may be arced and positioned inat least two concentric teeth rings. Each of the at least two concentricteeth rings may comprise at least two arced teeth of the plurality ofarced teeth of the second section, wherein the at least two concentricteeth rings of the second section may be positioned between the at leasttwo concentric teeth rings of the first section and the plurality ofarced teeth of the second section at least partially overlap theplurality of teeth of the first section within the grinding chamber. Awidth of each of the plurality of teeth of the first section and thesecond section may be equal to a distance between adjacent concentricteeth rings of the first section and second section. The plurality ofholes in the second section floor may be arranged in at least twoconcentric hole rings each comprising a plurality of holes, each of theat least two concentric hole rings being aligned with each of the atleast two concentric teeth rings of the first section. Each arced toothof the plurality of teeth of the first section may comprise a V-shapedprotrusion on a first end of the circular arced tooth, a crescent shapedrecess on a second end of the circular arced tooth opposite the firstend, and a V-shaped recess on a bottom end of the circular arced toothopposite the top surface. Each arced tooth of the plurality of teeth ofthe second section may comprise a V-shaped protrusion on a first end ofthe circular arced tooth, a crescent shaped recess on a second end ofthe circular arced tooth opposite the first end, and a V-shaped shapedrecess on a top end of the circular arced tooth opposite the secondsection floor. The plurality of teeth of the first section and theplurality of teeth of the second section may be positioned such that theV-shaped protrusions of the plurality of teeth of the first sectionpoint opposite the V-shaped protrusions of the plurality of teeth of thesecond section. The first section may be coupled to the second sectionwith a first magnet positioned at a center of the top surface and asecond magnet positioned at a center of the second section floor and incontact with the first magnet at a center point between the top surfaceand the second section floor. The at least two concentric teeth rings ofthe first section may comprise three concentric teeth rings eachcomprising four teeth. The at least two concentric teeth rings of thesecond section comprise two concentric teeth rings each may comprisefour teeth, a first concentric teeth ring of the two concentric teethrings of the second section being positioned between a first and asecond concentric teeth ring of the three concentric teeth rings of thefirst section, and a second concentric teeth ring of the two concentricteeth rings being positioned between the second and a third concentricteeth ring of the three concentric teeth rings of the first section.

According to another aspect, an herb grinding device comprises a firstcylindrical section and a second cylindrical section. The firstcylindrical section comprises a first cavity, a top surface, and aplurality of circular arced teeth extending from the top surface withinthe first cavity in at least two concentric teeth rings. Each of the atleast two concentric teeth rings comprise at least two circular arcedteeth and each circular arced tooth of the plurality of teeth of thefirst cylindrical section comprises a V-shaped protrusion on a first endof the circular arced tooth, a crescent shaped recess on a second end ofthe circular arced tooth opposite the first end, and a V-shaped recesson a bottom end of the circular arced tooth opposite the top surface.The second cylindrical section is rotatably coupled to the firstcylindrical section and comprises a second cavity facing the firstcavity, a second section floor, and a plurality of circular arced teethextending from the second section floor within the second cavity in atleast two concentric teeth rings each comprising at least two circulararced teeth. Each circular arced tooth of the plurality of teeth of thesecond cylindrical section comprises a V-shaped protrusion on a firstend of the circular arced tooth that points an opposite direction thanthe V-shaped protrusion of the plurality of teeth of the firstcylindrical section, a crescent shaped recess on a second end of thecircular arced tooth opposite the first end, and a V-shaped shapedrecess on a top end of the circular arced tooth opposite the secondsection floor. The at least two concentric teeth rings of the secondcylindrical section are positioned between the at least two concentricteeth rings of the first cylindrical section and the plurality ofcircular arced teeth of the second cylindrical section at leastpartially overlap the plurality of circular arced teeth of the firstcylindrical section.

Various implementations and embodiments may comprise one or more of thefollowing. A plurality of holes in the second section floor. The firstcylindrical section may be coupled to the second cylindrical sectionwith a first magnet positioned at a center of the top surface and asecond magnet positioned at a center of the second section floor and incontact with the first magnet at a center point between the top surfaceand the second section floor. At least a third cylindrical sectionremovably coupled to the second cylindrical section opposite the firstcylindrical section, the at least third section comprising a collectioncavity. The at least third cylindrical may comprise a third cylindricalsection removably coupled to the second cylindrical section opposite thefirst cylindrical section, the third cylindrical section comprising achannel extending through the third cylindrical section and one or moresupport arms extending across the channel; and a fourth cylindricalsection removably coupled to the third cylindrical section opposite thesecond cylindrical section. The at least two concentric teeth rings ofthe first cylindrical section may comprise three concentric teeth ringseach comprising four teeth. The at least two concentric teeth rings ofthe second cylindrical section may comprise two concentric teeth ringseach comprising four teeth, a first concentric teeth ring of the twoconcentric teeth rings of the second cylindrical section beingpositioned between a first and a second concentric teeth ring of thethree concentric teeth rings of the first cylindrical section, and asecond concentric teeth ring of the two concentric teeth rings beingpositioned between the second and a third concentric teeth ring of thethree concentric teeth rings of the first cylindrical section, wherein awidth of each of the plurality of teeth of the first section and thesecond section is equal to a distance between adjacent concentric teethrings of the first section and second section.

The foregoing and other aspects, features, and advantages will beapparent to those artisans of ordinary skill in the art from theDESCRIPTION and DRAWINGS, and from the CLAIMS.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will hereinafter be described in conjunction with theappended drawings, where like designations denote like elements, and:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an herb grinding device;

FIG. 2 is a top view of an herb grinding device with a top wall of afirst section removed to provide an interior view of the grindingchamber of the herb grinding device;

FIG. 3A is an upper exploded view of an herb grinding device;

FIG. 3B is a lower exploded view of an herb grinding device;

FIG. 4A is a top view of an herb grinding device;

FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of an herb grinding device taken alongsectional line 13-13 in FIG. 4A;

FIG. 5A is a top view of a first and second section of an herb grindingdevice

FIG. 5B is a cross sectional view of a first and second section of anherb grinding device taken along sectional line A-A of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 5C is an enlarged cross sectional view of the circled portion ofFIG. 5B;

FIG. 6A is a top view of an exploded first and section of an herbgrinding device;

FIG. 6B is a cross sectional view of an exploded first and secondsection of an herb grinding device taken along sectional line C-C ofFIG. 6A;

FIG. 7A is a top view of a first section of an herb grinding device;

FIG. 7B is a bottom view of a first section of an herb grinding device;

FIG. 7C is a first side view of a first section of an herb grindingdevice;

FIG. 7D is a second side view of a first section of an herb grindingdevice;

FIG. 7E is top perspective view of a first section of an herb grindingdevice;

FIG. 7F is a bottom perspective view of a first section of an herbgrinding device;

FIG. 7G is a front perspective view of a tooth of a first section of anherb grinding device;

FIG. 7H is a rear perspective view of a tooth of a first section of anherb grinding device;

FIG. 8A is a top view of a second section of an herb grinding device;

FIG. 8B is a bottom view of a second section of an herb grinding device;

FIG. 8C is a side view of a second section of an herb grinding device;

FIG. 8D is a top perspective view of a second section of an herbgrinding device;

FIG. 8E is a bottom perspective view of a second section of an herbgrinding device;

FIG. 8F is a front perspective view of a tooth of a second section of anherb grinding device;

FIG. 8G is a rear perspective view of a tooth of a second section of anherb grinding device;

FIG. 9A is a top view of a third section of an herb grinding device;

FIG. 9B is a bottom view of a third section of an herb grinding device;

FIG. 9C is a side view of a third section of an herb grinding device;

FIG. 9D is an exploded view of a third section of an herb grindingdevice;

FIG. 9E is a perspective view of a third section of an herb grindingdevice without a screen;

FIG. 10A is a side view of a fourth section of an herb grinding device;

FIG. 10B is a top view of a fourth section of an herb grinding device;

FIG. 10C is a bottom view of a fourth section of an herb grindingdevice;

FIG. 10D is a top perspective view of a fourth section of an herbgrinding device; and

FIG. 10E is a bottom perspective view of a fourth section of an herbgrinding device.

DESCRIPTION

This disclosure, its aspects and implementations, are not limited to thespecific components or assembly procedures disclosed herein. Manyadditional components and assembly procedures known in the artconsistent with the intended herb grinding device and/or assemblyprocedures for an herb grinding device will become apparent for use withimplementations of herb grinding devices from this disclosure.Accordingly, for example, although particular herb grinding devices aredisclosed, such herb grinding devices and implementing components maycomprise any shape, size, style, type, model, version, measurement,concentration, material, quantity, and/or the like as is known in theart for such herb grinding device and implementing components,consistent with the intended operation of an herb grinding device.

Contemplated as part of this disclosure are various embodiments of anherb grinding device that incorporate innovations, improvements andenhancements that impact the quality and process of shearing/grindingherbs, plants, botanicals and other materials into usable and preferredconsistencies for various uses. As shall be described in greater detailthrough this disclosure, embodiments of this device may be handheld,non-electric, and/or intended to grind small quantities of material.According to some aspects, an herb grinding device of this disclosuremay have multiple cylindrical sections, wherein rotation of two of thesections produces a shearing and/or grinding action as teeth pass inbetween one another. The floor of the second section may include aseries of holes that allow the ground herbs to be separated and bestored in the third section below the second section. The third sectionmay include a screen that filters finely ground herbs, and a fourthsection separates and stores the finely ground herbs. Greater detailsand other configurations of each of these sections will be describedbelow.

As shall also be described throughout this disclosure, one or more ofthe herb grinding devices contemplated herein are advantageous toconventional herb grinding devices by providing three differentcoarseness options of ground herbs due to a dual teeth edge design,reducing the force/friction required to grind herbs due to the design ofradial cut teeth, increasing longevity of the device due to innovativedesign of the threading notches that eliminates cross threading,increasing longevity of the device due to the replaceable fine filteringscreen and support for the screen by a cross brace support member, andproviding a portable solution for users to manually grind smallquantities of herbs while addressing all the common pit falls associatedwith traditional grinders.

Contemplated as part of this disclosure are various embodiments of anherb grinding device 2. In one or more embodiments, an herb grindingdevice 2 is relatively lightweight and portable, and yet very strong. Byway of example and not limitation, an herb grinding device 2 may bemanufactured from 6061 or 7075 grade aluminum, 304 stainless, or T2titanium. According to some aspects, an herb grinding device 2 comprisesat least a first section 4 and a second section 6. Other contemplatedembodiments may comprise a third section 8 and/or a fourth section 10,although these sections are not required in all embodiments. Althoughreference is made in this description and in the figures tosubstantially cylindrical sections of an herb grinding device 2, it iscontemplated that the exterior of the herb grinding device 2 is notalways cylindrical and may, instead, comprise any other geometric shapesand configurations. FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a non-limitingembodiment of a herb grinding device 2 comprising a first section 4coupled to a second section 6, a third section 8 coupled to the secondsection 6 opposite the first section 4, and a fourth section 10 coupledto the third section 8 opposite the second section 6. FIGS. 3A and 3Bprovide exploded top and bottom perspective views, respectively, andFIG. 4B provides a cross sectional view of non-limiting embodiment of anherb grinding device 2 comprising a first section 4, a second section 6,a third section 8, and a fourth section 10. Details of each of thesections shall be provided below.

In one or more embodiments, an herb grinding device 2 comprises a firstsection 4 rotatably and removably coupled to a second section 6. FIGS.7A-7F depict various views of a non-limiting embodiment of a firstsection 4. According to some aspects, a first section 4 comprises asubstantially cylindrical first section 4 having a cylindrical firstcavity 62 within a portion of the cylindrical first section 4. In otherembodiments, a first section may comprise other geometric configurationson the outside of the first section, and maintain a cylindrical firstcavity 62 within a portion of the first section. The first cavity 62 maybe bordered by circular outer wall 72 and a top surface 58, and comprisean opening opposite the top surface 58. According to some aspects, thefirst cavity 62 comprises a depth of between approximately 0.25″ and0.75″. The outer wall 72 is sized to receive a portion of the secondsection 6 within the first cavity 62 or, alternatively, fit within aportion of the second section 6.

In one or more embodiments, a first section 4 comprises a plurality ofteeth 50. According to some aspects, the plurality of teeth 50 extendfrom the top surface 58 of the first section and are positioned to forma plurality of concentric teeth rings 60, with each concentric teethring 60 comprising a plurality of teeth 50. In the non-limitingembodiment depicted in FIGS. 7A-7F, the first section 4 comprises threeconcentric teeth rings 60, with each concentric teeth ring 60 comprisingfour equally spaced apart teeth 50. In other embodiments, a firstsection 4 may comprise any number of concentric teeth rings 60 and anynumber of teeth 50 within each concentric teeth ring. Each concentricteeth ring 60 comprises a center aligned with a center of the firstcavity 62. In the non-limiting embodiment depicted in FIG. 7B, forexample, a magnet 64 is positioned at a center of the first cavity 62 ofthe first section 4. According to some aspects, the plurality of teeth50 within each concentric teeth ring 60 may be aligned with theplurality of teeth 50 within each adjacent teeth ring 60. For example,in the non-limiting embodiment depicted in FIG. 7B, the four teeth 50 ineach concentric ring are aligned with the four teeth in the adjacentconcentric teeth ring 60, each tooth 50 within each concentric teethring 60 being approximately 90 degrees from the adjacent teeth of thesame concentric teeth ring 60. That is, the teeth 50 of adjacent teethrings 60 are aligned, but narrow in radial length towards a center ofthe first cavity 62 in a pie-shaped configuration. Thus, a pie-shapedconfiguration of space may exist between aligned teeth 50.

In one or more embodiments, each tooth 50 of the first section 4comprises a circular arced tooth 50. More particularly, each circulararced tooth 50 may comprise a center point of the arc at a center offirst cavity 62. Circular arced teeth 50 are advantageous toconventional teeth because circular arced teeth are extremely strong andunbreakable due to the curvature and elongation of the teeth 50.Conventional teeth are typically post teeth, which are prone to breakingwhen enough force is applied. Circular arced teeth are also moreelongated teeth 50 than conventional post teeth, and allow the groundmaterial to essentially roll between the teeth 50 and become compacted,which then allows the material to fall through the holes 24 with lesseffort. FIGS. 7G and 7H depict close up views of non-limitingembodiments of a circular arc tooth 50 of the first section 4. Accordingto some aspects, each tooth 50 may comprise one or more of thefollowing: a V-shaped protrusion 52 on a first end of the tooth 50, acrescent shaped recess 56 on a second end of the tooth 50 opposite thefirst end, and a V-shaped recess 54 on a bottom end of the tooth 50opposite the top surface 58. The V-shaped recess 54 may comprise anangle of between approximately 30 degrees and 150 degrees. A V-shapedrecess 54 on a bottom end of the tooth 50 assists in the shearing and/orgrinding by allowing the first section 4 to be placed on to the secondsection 6 without the need to smash it in place. This helps slice downthrough the unground material rather than just smashing the sectionstogether with brute force. The V-shaped recess 54 on a bottom end of thetooth 50 also reduces the amount of ground material sticking to theinterior of the first cavity 62 and the second cavity 22 by reducingsurface area contact.

In the non-limiting embodiment depicted in FIGS. 7G and 7H, each toothcomprises a V-shaped protrusion 52 on a first end of the tooth 50, acrescent shaped recess 56 on a second end of the tooth 50 opposite thefirst end, and a V-shaped recess 54 on a bottom end of the tooth 50opposite the top surface 58. According to some aspects, each tooth 50 ineach concentric teeth ring 60 extends approximately 30 degrees along therespective teeth ring 60. In some embodiments, a width of each tooth ofthe plurality of teeth 50 may be between approximately 0.050″ and0.150″. The V-shaped portion of each recess or protrusion may be sharpand angular or, alternatively, partially rounded. In one or moreembodiments, each tooth 50 may comprise a radiused edged 78 at a base ofthe tooth 50 where the tooth 50 intersects the top surface 58, thusproviding additional strength to the tooth 50.

In one or more embodiments, rotatable coupling of a first section 4 to asecond section 6 is enhanced or strengthened by a magnet 64 at thecenter of the first cavity 62, such as but not limited to a neodymiummagnet. The magnet 64 may be magnetically attracted to metal of thesecond section 6 or, alternatively a magnet 26 positioned at a center ofthe second section 6. Magnetic coupling of the first section 4 and thesecond section 6 is advantageous because it prevents the sections fromseparating during rotation of the first section and grinding, whilestill allowing for easy and quickly removal of the first section 4 fromthe second section 6 to insert herbs into the grinding device 2. Moreparticularly, each magnet 64, 26 may be held in place on the respectivefirst section 4 or second section by a magnet boss on each section. Insome embodiments, a magnet boss of the second section 6 is equaldistance from the second section floor 20 as a magnet boss of the firstsection 4 is from the top surface 58. This allows the magnets 64, 26 tomeet and contact each other a center point between the top surface 58and the second section floor 20. Such a configuration inhibits materialfrom getting stuck between the magnets and weakening the magneticcoupling between the magnets 64, 26. In other embodiments, any othercoupling devices known in the art may be utilized.

In one or more embodiments, a first section 4 may comprise at least oneof a recessed outer cavity 16, a T-shaped slot 14, and a plurality ofgripping slots 12. The recessed outer cavity 16 is positioned on anoutside of the first section 4 opposite the first cavity 62 and may besized to function as an ash tray on the herb grinding device 2.According to some aspects, the recessed outer cavity comprises a widthapproximately one-third a diameter of the first section 4. Although theembodiment depicted in FIG. 7A comprises only a single recessed outercavity 16, it is contemplated that some embodiments may comprise tworecessed outer cavities 16, with a T-shaped slot being positionedbetween the two recessed outer cavities 16. A t-shaped slot 14 may besized to allow for a standard rolling papers sleeve package to be heldin place within the T-slot. This allows rolling papers to be dispensedthrough the top surface of the first section 4. This helps prevent lossor misplacement of the rolling papers by the user. One or moreembodiments of a first section 4 further comprise gripping elements,such as but not limited to a plurality of gripping slots 12 on an outercircumference of the first section 4. The gripping slots 12 allow for amore natural grip of the hand and fingers. Thus, a user need applysignificantly less pressure when rotating the lid as compared to theconventional knurl style grip.

As previously noted an herb grinding device 2 of this disclosure mayfurther comprise a second section 6 rotatably coupled to a first section4. FIGS. 8A-8E depict a non-limiting embodiment of a second section 6.According to some aspects, a second section 6 comprises a substantiallycylindrical second section 6 having a cylindrical second cavity 22within a portion of the cylindrical second section 6. In otherembodiments, a second section may comprise other geometricconfigurations on the outside of the second section, and maintain acylindrical second cavity 22 within a portion of the second section. Thesecond cavity 22 may be bordered by annular flange 28 and a secondsection floor 20, and comprise an opening opposite the second sectionfloor 20. According to some aspects, a second cavity 22 comprises adepth between approximately 0.25″ and 0.75″. The annular flange 28according to some aspects is sized to fit within the first cavity 62 andinterface with or be adjacent to the outer wall 72 of the first section72. This configuration allows the first section 4 to rotate freely aboutthe annular flange 28 in either direction. This configuration alsoreduces residue buildup and accumulation because the annular flange 28fits within the first section 4. Accordingly, a slight space may existbetween the interfaced outer wall 72 and annular flange 28 to allowrotation of the first section 4 relative to the second section 6. Inother embodiments, the annular flange 28 is sized to receive a portionof the first section 4 to allow rotation of the first section 4 withinthe second cavity 22.

In one or more embodiments, a second section 6 comprises a plurality ofteeth 30. According to some aspects, the plurality of teeth 30 extendfrom second section floor 20 within the second cavity 22 of the secondsection 6 and are positioned to form a plurality of concentric teethrings 40, with each concentric teeth ring 40 comprising a plurality ofteeth 30. In the non-limiting embodiment depicted in FIGS. 8A-8E, thesecond section 6 comprises two concentric teeth rings 40, with eachconcentric teeth ring 40 comprising four equally spaced apart teeth 30.In other embodiments, a second section 6 may comprise any number ofconcentric teeth rings 40 and any number of teeth 30 within eachconcentric teeth ring 40. Each concentric teeth ring 40 comprises acenter aligned with a center of the second cavity 22. In thenon-limiting embodiment depicted in FIG. 8A, for example, a magnet 26 ispositioned at a center of the second cavity 22 of the second section 6.According to some aspects, the plurality of teeth 30 within eachconcentric teeth ring 40 may be aligned with the plurality of teeth 30within each adjacent teeth ring 40. For example, in the non-limitingembodiment depicted in FIG. 8A, the four teeth 30 in each concentricring 40 are aligned with the four teeth 30 in the adjacent concentricteeth ring 40, each tooth 30 within each concentric teeth ring 40 beingapproximately 90 degrees from the adjacent teeth of the same concentricteeth ring 40. That is, the teeth 30 of adjacent teeth rings 40 arealigned, but narrow in radial length towards a center of the secondcavity 22 in a pie-shaped configuration. Thus, a pie-shapedconfiguration of space may exist between aligned teeth 30.

In one or more embodiments, each tooth 30 of the second section 6comprises a circular arced tooth 30. More particularly, each circulararced tooth 30 may comprise a center point of the arc at a center ofsecond cavity 22. FIGS. 8F and 8G depict close up views of non-limitingembodiments of a circular arc tooth 30 of the second section 6.According to some aspects, each tooth 30 may comprise one or more of thefollowing: a V-shaped protrusion 32 on a first end of the tooth 30, acrescent shaped recess 36 on a second end of the tooth 30 opposite thefirst end, and a V-shaped recess 34 on a top end of the tooth 30opposite the second section floor 20. A V-shaped recess 34 on a top endof the tooth 30 assists in the shearing and/or grinding by allowing thesecond section 6 to be placed into the first section 4 without the needto smash it in place. The V-shaped recess 34 may comprise an angle ofbetween approximately 30 degrees and 150 degrees. This helps slice downthrough the unground material rather than just smashing the sectionstogether with brute force. The V-shaped recess 34 on a top end of thetooth 30 also reduces the amount of ground material sticking to theinterior of the first cavity 62 and the second cavity 22 by reducingsurface area contact.

In the non-limiting embodiment depicted in FIGS. 8F and 8G, each tooth30 comprises a V-shaped protrusion 32 on a first end of the tooth 30, acrescent shaped recess 36 on a second end of the tooth 30 opposite thefirst end, and a V-shaped recess 34 on a top end of the tooth 30opposite the second section floor 20. According to some aspects, eachtooth 30 in each concentric teeth ring 40 extends approximately 30degrees along the respective teeth ring 40. More particularly, a widthof each tooth of the plurality of teeth 30 may be between approximately0.050″ and 0.150″. The V-shaped portion of each recess or protrusion maybe sharp and angular or, alternatively, partially rounded. In one ormore embodiments, each tooth 30 comprises a radiused edged 78 at a baseof the tooth 30 where the tooth 30 intersects the second section floor20, thus providing additional strength to the tooth 30. In some,non-limiting embodiments, the plurality of teeth 50 of the first section4 and the plurality of teeth 30 of the second section 6 are positionedon their respective sections such that the V-shaped protrusions 52 ofthe plurality of teeth 50 of the first section 4 point opposite theV-shaped protrusions 32 of the plurality of teeth 30 of the secondsection 6.

According to some aspects, a width of each of the plurality of teeth 30,50 of the first section 4 and the second section 6 is equal to adistance between adjacent concentric teeth rings 40, 60 of the firstsection 4 and second section 4. For example, in some embodiments, awidth of each tooth of the plurality of teeth 30, 50 may comprise awidth of approximately 0.10″. In such an embodiment, a gap or distancebetween the plurality of teeth 50 on a first concentric teeth ring 60 ofthe first section 4 and the plurality of teeth 30 on an adjacent firstconcentric teeth ring 40 of the second section 6 is approximately 0.10″.Even more particularly, a gap or distance between the magnet boss ofeach section is also equal to a width of the plurality of teeth 30, 50,and a gap or distance between the outer most centric teeth ring is alsoequal to a width of the plurality of teeth 30, 50. Such a configurationis advantageous because it results in the exact same consistency whengrinding herbs, which is highly desirable. It also ensures an evendistribution of ground matter passing in-between the plurality of teeth30, 50.

In one or more embodiments, rotatable coupling of a first section 4 to asecond section 6 is enhanced or strengthened by a magnet 26 at thecenter of the second cavity 22. The magnet 26 may be magneticallyattracted to metal of the first section 4 or, alternatively, a magnet 64positioned at a center of the first section 4. FIG. 2 depicts one suchnon-limiting embodiment of an herb grinding device 2 wherein theV-shaped protrusions 32 of the plurality of teeth 30 of the secondsection 6 point in a counter-clockwise direction, while the V-shapedprotrusions 52 of the plurality of teeth 50 of the first section 4 pointin a clockwise direction. Configuration of the teeth 30, 50 in thismanner allows for three different coarseness consistencies of groundherbs: coarse, medium, and fine. For example, a clockwise rotationresults in a rough coarseness grind and utilizes the V-shapedprotrusions 32, 52 of the teeth 30, 50. A counter-clockwise rotationresults in a fine coarseness grind and utilizes the crescent recesses36, 56 of the teeth 30, 50. A combination of both counter clockwise andclockwise rotations results in a medium coarseness grind and utilizesboth edges of the teeth 30, 50. This is unique and different from anyother grinder as the traditional grinders only employ one cutting edge,thus resulting in only a single coarseness consistency.

In one or more embodiments, each second section 6 comprises a pluralityof holes 24 in the second section floor 20. The plurality of holes 24may be configured to allow ground herbs to be separated and fall throughto the third section 8 and/or fourth section 10 typically positionedbelow the second section 6. According to some aspects, the plurality ofholes 24 are arranged in a plurality of concentric hole rings 29 eachcomprising a plurality of holes 24. In the non-limiting embodimentdepicted in FIGS. 8D & 8E, the second section 6 comprises threeconcentric hole rings 29 each comprising a plurality of holes 24. Moreparticularly, the plurality of concentric teeth rings 40 may bealternately positioned between the plurality of concentric hole rings29. For example, the non-limiting embodiment depicted in FIGS. 8D & 8Ecomprises the following concentric rings, working outward from thecenter magnet 26 of the second section floor: a first concentric holering between the center magnet 26 and a first concentric teeth ring, thefirst concentric teeth ring between the first concentric hole ring andthe second concentric hole ring, the second concentric hole ring betweenthe first concentric teeth ring and a second concentric teeth ring, thesecond concentric teeth ring between the second concentric hole ring anda third concentric hole ring, and the third concentric teeth ringbetween the second concentric teeth ring and the annular flange 28.Other embodiments may additional or few alternating concentric teeth andhole rings.

In one or more embodiments, the plurality of concentric hole rings 29 ofthe second section 6 is positioned to align with the plurality ofconcentric teeth rings 60 of the first section 4. More particularly, theteeth 50 of the first section 4 may be perfectly positioned on acenterline of a hole 24 of a concentric hole ring 29. This allows forthe ground material to pass through the holes in a more efficient mannerand allows for creation of a pinch point during grinding. FIG. 2 depictsa non-limiting embodiment of an herb grinding device 2 with a topsurface 58 removed to view the grinding chamber 85 of the herb grindingdevice 2. By way of example and not limitation, FIG. 2 depicts each ofthe three concentric teeth rings 60 of the first section 4 aligning witha different one of the plurality of concentric hole rings 29 of thesecond section. According to some aspects, a distance between eachconcentric teeth ring 40 of the second section 6 and an adjacentconcentric teeth ring 60 of the first section 4 is between approximately0.050″ and 0.150″ inches when the first section 4 and the second section6 are rotatably coupled together. It is noted that the aligned andcircular arced teeth 30, 50 reduce the shearing and/or grinding frictionof conventional systems by allowing smooth lid rotation while slicingthe material. Conventional grinding teeth mash and tear, while thecircular arced teeth 30, 50 contemplated herein shear and slice,resulting in reduced friction. Such a configuration also helps maintainthe integrity of tricombs found on herbal material, which results in amore desirable grinding and/or shearing methodology as it properlyprepares the herbs for use without destroying them.

Embodiments of a second section 6 may comprise a plurality of holes 24of any of a number of shapes and configurations. According to someaspects, each of the plurality of holes 24 may be substantially squareshaped, including having rounded corners on the square hole. Squareshaped holes 24 may be advantageous to other shapes by allowing theteeth 30, 50 edges to create a pinch point against the square shapedholes 24 to further reduce friction and increase grinder efficiency.Conventional grinders utilize round holes or slots, which do not helpthe shearing and grinding efficiency because a pinch point isnon-existent on a curved or rounded hole. Even more particularly, theplurality of holes 24 may be positioned on the second section floor 20such that a corner 25 of each of the plurality of holes is pointing orotherwise directed to a center, such as the center magnet 26, of thesecond section floor 20. In other embodiments, the plurality of holes 24may comprise other shapes and configurations, such as but not limited todiamond, star, pentagon, hexagon, or triangle.

FIGS. 4B and 5C depict cross sectional views that include a grindingchamber 85 formed by the alignment of a first cavity 62 of a firstsection 2 and a second cavity 22 of a second section 6. In one or moreembodiments, the first cavity 62 and the second cavity 22 are sized suchthat a small gap 82 exists between the bottom of the plurality of teeth50 of the first section 4 and the second section floor 2, and a smallgap 80 exists between the top of the plurality of teeth 30 of the secondsection 6. According to some aspects, each gap 80, 82 is approximately0.010″. Such a configuration allows for a shearing and grinding of herbswithin a grinding chamber 85 as a first section 4 is rotated relative toa second section 6. The gaps 80, 82 also reduces the build up andaccumulation of residue, which eventually clogs the grinding chamber 85.Furthermore, the gaps 80, 82 may also ensure the magnets 26, 64 holdingthe first section 4 and the second section 6 together remain coupled,thus ensuring a strong magnetic coupling or seal. The teeth ofconventional grinders drag directly on the interior cavity floors, whichresult in the employment of a thick plastic lid ring to elevate theteeth from the floor. This, in turn, does not allow for a magneticcoupling and results in a weaker seal or coupling of the section. Thus,configurations contemplated herein eliminate the need for a thickplastic lid ring typically employed on all other grinders.

In one or more embodiments, a second section 6 is removably coupled to athird section 8. According to some aspects, a second section 6 isthreadedly and removably coupled to a third section 8. Even moreparticularly, a second section 6 may be threadedly coupled to a thirdsection 8 with a plurality of threading notches 66. For example, thenon-limiting embodiment depicted in FIGS. 8B and 8E comprises fourrelief threading notches 66 configured to engage with relief threadingnotches 38 of the third section 8. The threading notches 66 of thesecond section 6 may be positioned on an inner surface of the secondsection 6 below the second section floor 20 and opposite the secondcavity 22, while the threading notches 38 of the third section 8 may bepositioned on at outer surface of an annular flange of the third section8 that fits within the second section 6. In other embodiments, thethreading notches 66 of the second section 6 may be positioned on anouter surface that fits within a portion of the third section 8.Removably coupling via the four threading notches 66, 38 allows forseparation or coupling of the second section 6 and the third section 8quicker than a conventional thread that has to be unscrewed and rotatedmultiple times before being completely coupled or uncoupled. Utilizationof four relief threading notches allows a standard UNF thread to beconjoined and un joined without the need to continuously rotate therespective sections. Instead, sections may be coupled or uncoupled witha simple one-quarter turn of one of the sections. According to someaspects, the threading notches 38, 66 comprise a low threads per inch(TPI), such as but not limited to a 12-6 TPI. In one or moreembodiments, the female side threading notches contemplated in thisdisclosure is separated into eight segments that alternate evenlybetween thread-gap-thread-gap. The gaps in the female connection of thequick lock thread serve as relief for coupling the male side of theadjacent section.

FIGS. 9A-9E depict various view of a non-limiting embodiment of a thirdsection 8 of an herb grinding device 2. A third section 8 may beconfigured to filter finely ground herbs. According to some aspects, athird section 8 comprises a channel 70 extending through a cylindricalthird section 8 and on or more support arms 68 extending across thechannel 70. In some embodiments, the one or more support arms 68comprise a cross brace support arms 68. Cross brace support arms 68 maybe configured to support a bottom surface of a screen 42 coupled to thecross brace support arms 68 with a screw 82 such that the screen 42 ispositioned within the channel 70. FIG. 9D provides an explodedperspective view of a third section 8 comprises a screen 42, and FIG. 3Aprovides a perspective view of a third section 8 with a screen 42coupled to the cross brace support arms 68 in the third section 8. Thescreen may comprise one of a fine, medium, or coarse woven mesh,stainless steel, or titanium. An outer edge of a screen 42 may be heldin place within the third section 8 with a small groove on an innersurface of the channel 70 just above the cross brace support arms 68.Utilizing one or more support arms 68, such as cross brace support arms68 is advantageous to conventional devices because the support arms 68support the screen 42, rather than unsupported screens stretched acrossthe device like a drum in conventional systems. Such conventionalmounting of a screen results in tearing and stretching of the screenover time. In contrast, support of the screen 42 with support arms 68prevents stretch and tearing, and allows for easy replacement of thescreen 42.

As previously noted, a third section 8 may comprise threading notches 38on an annular flange of the third section 8 for coupling of the thirdsection 8 to a second section 6. According to some aspects, a thirdsection 8 is threadedly and removably coupled to a fourth section 10.Even more particularly, a third section 8 may be threadedly coupled to afourth section 10 with a plurality of threading notches 74. For example,the non-limiting embodiment depicted in FIG. 9B comprises four reliefthreading notches 74 configured to engage with relief threading notches48 of the fourth section 10. The threading notches 74 of the thirdsection 8 may be positioned on an inner surface of the third section 8below the support arms 68, while the threading notches 48 of the fourthsection 10 may be positioned on at outer surface of an annular flange ofthe fourth section 10 that fits within the third section 8. In otherembodiments, the threading notches 74 of the third section 8 may bepositioned on an outer surface that fits within a portion of the fourthsection 10. Removably coupling via the four threading notches 74, 48allows for separation or coupling of the third section 8 and the fourthsection 10 quicker than a conventional thread that has to be unscrewedand rotated multiple times before being completely coupled or uncoupled.Utilization of four relief threading notches allows a standard UNFthread to be conjoined and un-joined without the need to continuouslyrotate the respective sections. Instead, sections may be coupled oruncoupled with a simple one-quarter turn of one of the sections.According to some aspects, the threading notches 74, 48 comprise a lowthreads per inch (TPI), such as but not limited to a 12-6 TPI.

FIGS. 10A-E depict various views of a non-limiting embodiment of afourth section 10 of an herb grinding device. A fourth section 10 may beconfigured to store finely ground particles and/or pollen. As previouslynoted, a fourth section 10 is configured to be removably coupled to athird section 8. The fourth section 10 may couple to the third section 8with threading notches 48. In one or more embodiments, a fourth section10 comprises a collection cavity 44. The collection cavity 44 isconfigured to collect the grindings of herbs ground in the grindingchamber 85 of the first section 4 and the second section 6. According tosome aspects, the collection cavity 44 comprises a radiused edge 46. Theradiused edge 46 of the collection cavity 44 allow for easy removal offinely filtered particles and solves the traditional problem ofparticles getting trapped in the corners of a collection cavity. Thisconfiguration allows for a standard guitar pick to contour the radiusededge 46 of the collection cavity 44 to assist in fine pollen removal. Itis also configured for use of a finger to remove or scoop the particlesfrom the collection cavity 44. It is further contemplated that thefourth section 10 comprising a collection cavity 44 may be removablycoupled to the second section 6 comprising a second section floor aspreviously described. That is, in some embodiments, a third section 8 isnot necessary. Coupling of the fourth section 10 to the second section 6may be similar to the coupling of a third section 8 to a second section6.

It will be understood that implementations are not limited to thespecific components disclosed herein, as virtually any componentsconsistent with the intended operation of a method and/or systemimplementation for herb grinding devices may be utilized. Accordingly,for example, although particular herb grinding devices may be disclosed,such components may comprise any shape, size, style, type, model,version, class, grade, measurement, concentration, material, weight,quantity, and/or the like consistent with the intended operation of amethod and/or system implementation for an herb grinding device may beused.

In places where the description above refers to particularimplementations of an herb grinding device, it should be readilyapparent that a number of modifications may be made without departingfrom the spirit thereof and that these implementations may be applied toother herb grinding devices. The accompanying claims are intended tocover such modifications as would fall within the true spirit and scopeof the disclosure set forth in this document. The presently disclosedimplementations are, therefore, to be considered in all respects asillustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the disclosure beingindicated by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description.All changes that come within the meaning of and range of equivalency ofthe claims are intended to be embraced therein.

The invention claimed is:
 1. An herb grinding device, comprising: afirst cylindrical section comprising a first cavity, a top surface, and,a plurality of teeth extending from the top surface within the firstcavity; a second cylindrical section coupled to the first cylindricalsection and comprising a second cavity facing the first cavity, a secondsection floor, a plurality of holes formed through the second sectionfloor, and a plurality of teeth extending from the second section floorwithin the second cavity; wherein the plurality of teeth of the secondcylindrical section are positioned between the plurality of teeth of thefirst cylindrical section; a third cylindrical section removably coupledto the second cylindrical section, the third cylindrical sectioncomprising a collection cavity; and a first quick release mechanism todetach the second cylindrical section from the third cylindricalsection, wherein the first quick release mechanism comprises: a firstplurality of threading notches spaced around an inner surface of thesecond cylindrical section; and a second plurality of threading notchesspaced around an exterior surface of the third cylindrical section, thefirst plurality of threading notches engaging and disengaging the secondplurality of threading notches allowing the second cylindrical sectionto be locked and unlocked from the third cylindrical section by aquarter rotation of one of the second cylindrical section or the thirdcylindrical section.
 2. The herb grinding device of claim 1, wherein thefirst cylindrical section is magnetically coupled to the secondcylindrical section.
 3. The herb grinding device of claim 1, comprisinga removable screen positioned within the collection cavity.
 4. The herbgrinding device of claim 3, comprising support arms positioned acrossthe collection cavity to support the removable screen within thecollection cavity.
 5. The herb grinding device of claim 1, comprising afourth cylindrical section removably coupled to the third cylindricalsection opposite the second cylindrical section.
 6. The herb grindingdevice of claim 5, comprising a second quick release mechanism to detachthe third cylindrical section from the fourth cylindrical section. 7.The herb grinding device of claim 6, wherein the second quick releasemechanism comprises a third plurality of threading notches spaced aroundan interior of the third cylindrical section and a fourth plurality ofthreading notches spaced around an exterior of the fourth cylindricalsection, the third plurality of notches engaging and disengaging thefourth plurality of notches allowing the third cylindrical section to belocked and unlocked from the fourth cylindrical section by a quarterrotation of one of the third cylindrical section or the fourthcylindrical section.
 8. The herb grinding device of claim 5, comprisinga fourth cylindrical section collection cavity formed in the fourthcylindrical section.
 9. The herb grinding device of claim 8, comprisinga radiused edge formed on the fourth cylindrical section collectioncavity.
 10. The herb grinding device of claim 8, wherein the fourthcylindrical section collection cavity is, bowl shaped.
 11. The herbgrinding device of claim 1, wherein the plurality of teeth extendingfrom the top surface within the first cavity comprises at least twoconcentric teeth rings and the plurality of teeth extending from thesecond section floor comprises at least two concentric teeth rings. 12.The herb grinding device of claim 11, wherein the at least twoconcentric teeth rings of the second cylindrical section are positionedbetween the at least two concentric teeth rings of the first cylindricalsection and the plurality of teeth extending from the second sectionfloor at least partially overlap the plurality of teeth extending fromthe first section floor.
 13. An herb grinding device, comprising: afirst cylindrical section comprising a first cavity, a top surface, anda plurality of circular arced teeth extending from the top surfacewithin the first cavity in at least two concentric teeth rings; a secondcylindrical section coupled to the first cylindrical section andcomprising a second cavity facing the first cavity, a second sectionfloor, a plurality of holes in the second section floor, and a pluralityof circular arced teeth extending from the second section floor withinthe second cavity in at least two concentric teeth rings, wherein the atleast two concentric teeth rings of the second cylindrical section arepositioned between the at least two concentric teeth rings of the firstcylindrical section and the plurality of circular arced teeth of thesecond cylindrical section at least partially overlap the plurality ofcircular arced teeth of the first cylindrical section; a thirdcylindrical section removably coupled to the second cylindrical section,the at least third section comprising a collection cavity; a first quickrelease mechanism to detach the second cylindrical section from thethird cylindrical section, wherein the first quick release mechanismcomprises: a first plurality of threading notches spaced around an innersurface of the second cylindrical section; and a second plurality ofthreading notches spaced around an exterior surface of the thirdcylindrical section, the first plurality of threading notches engagingand disengaging the second plurality of threading notches allowing thesecond cylindrical section to be locked and unlocked from the thirdcylindrical section by a quarter rotation of one of the secondcylindrical section or the third cylindrical section; a fourthcylindrical section removably coupled to the third cylindrical sectionopposite the second cylindrical section; and a second quick releasemechanism to detach the third cylindrical section from the fourthcylindrical section, wherein the second quick release mechanismcomprises: a third plurality of threading notches spaced around aninterior of the third cylindrical section; and a fourth plurality ofthreading notches spaced around an exterior of the fourth cylindricalsection, the third plurality of threading notches engaging anddisengaging the fourth plurality of threading notches allowing the thirdcylindrical section to be locked and unlocked from the fourthcylindrical section by a quarter rotation of one of the thirdcylindrical section or the fourth cylindrical section.
 14. The herbgrinding device of claim 13, wherein the third cylindrical sectioncomprises: extending through the third cylindrical section and one garmore support arms extending across the channel.
 15. The herb grindingdevice of claim 14, comprising a radiused edge formed on, the collectioncavity.